Rania Mankarios, the CEO of Crime Stoppers in Houston, joins the podcast to discuss crime prevention and the significance of preparedness in crisis situations. Mankarios explains that even in the midst of panic, remaining calm and having a plan can save lives. She shares a personal experience of navigating a mall evacuation with her children, emphasizing the importance of pre-established exit knowledge. Genevieve stresses awareness training's value, drawing parallels to organized safety briefings on airplanes. The conversation highlights how Crime Stoppers educates on digital safety, especially for children, and offers resources at crime-stoppers.org. Mankarios also touches on the need for open discussions about death and safety. Additionally, the talk delves into the extensive work Crime Stoppers does beyond anonymous tips, including legislative advocacy and long-term support for crime victims. Key Takeaways 1. The importance of deterrents in crime prevention cannot be overstated. Utilizing programs like Crime Stoppers that actively engage in awareness and educational outreach plays a crucial role in reducing crime rates. 2. Being prepared and maintaining calm in emergencies is essential. Both cognitive and practical training, such as knowing exit routes and safety protocols, can significantly reduce chaos and ensure safety in crisis situations. 3. Providing comprehensive support to victims of crime, from immediate post-incident intervention to long-term emotional and legislative advocacy, is crucial in helping them recover and rebuild their lives. 4. Addressing broader societal issues such as food deserts and lack of after-school care is imperative for a holistic approach to crime prevention, as these factors contribute to the environment that fosters criminal behavior. 5. Open discussions about death and personal safety, though often uncomfortable, are necessary for preparedness. Knowing a loved one's wishes can provide emotional relief and clarity, ensuring that their desires are respected and reducing the potential for missteps in emergencies. Learn more about Crime Stoppers of Houston HERE. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Guest from Crime Stoppers featured in podcast. 03:52 School tragedies irrevocably alter culture and lives. 09:07 Families need support, legal changes for recovery. 10:06 Family faces life sentence without their daughter. 13:49 Appreciation for Crime Stoppers' behind-the-scenes work. 16:41 Crime prevention through education and proactive work. 22:16 Finding functionality and positivity in new normal. 24:22 Airplane crash instructions differ from real reactions. 27:46 Training to enhance situational awareness for safety. 31:34 Funerals serve the living, not the deceased. 33:19 Address systemic failures; promote holistic societal solutions. 36:06 Grateful for Crime Stoppers' vital support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez hosts Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America (WAA). They delve into honoring fallen veterans, exploring WAA's inception, and its diverse initiatives, including educational programs. The conversation emphasizes the significance of commemorating our heroes and the profound impact of WAA's efforts. For more on this cause, visit Wreaths Across America's website, engaging in honoring and learning about our nation's heroes. Please consider sharing this episode with family and friends. And schedule your tour of The National Museum of Funeral History at nmfh.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why is the preservation of forgotten cemeteries crucial amidst rapid urban development? As a commercial realtor with a passion for Texas history, Karen Craig sheds light on the challenges of protecting hidden burial grounds. Houston's expansion has led to the rediscovery of sites like the Sugar Land 95, raising awareness of neglected graves. Karen emphasizes that it is the responsibility of landowners and realtors to maintain these historical treasures. Key Takeaways The importance of identifying, preserving, and maintaining historical cemeteries, especially as urban development encroaches upon them. This involves both legal and cultural responsibilities to ensure these historical sites are respected and maintained for future generations. Realtors and landowners in Texas have specific legal responsibilities to identify, report, and preserve gravesites found on properties. These responsibilities include ensuring proper documentation and maintenance of cemetery sites as well as providing access for visitors. The clash between traditional burial practices and modern technological solutions raises concerns about losing cultural and historical connections. Younger generations might view innovations like sending ashes to space or high-tech burial solutions as "cool," but these practices may lack the personal touch valued in traditional methods. Historical sites often have rich narratives and sometimes even supernatural lore, which needs to be acknowledged, respected, and preserved. This includes recognizing the significance of unmarked or forgotten cemeteries and incorporating historical awareness into urban development. Variations in cultural practices related to burial customs reflect the broader societal values and geographical constraints. For instance, densely populated areas may adopt practices like cremation or vertical cemeteries, whereas regions with abundant land, like Texas, might resist such changes, preferring more personal and traditional approaches. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Final Curtain: Museum talk with realtor Karen. 04:41 Texas harbors numerous neglected, historically-rich cemeteries. 07:21 Realtors use aerial footage to spot foliage. 10:12 Honored to care for a cemetery's legacy. 13:02 Preserving Olive Wood cemetery despite development challenges. 15:39 Grateful for rules protecting sacred burial land. 18:47 Vertical structure elevates urns for display. 22:38 Civil War reenactments preserve historical understanding. 26:08 First encounter with unseen energy and police's notice. 28:29 Civil War feels recent, especially in NYC. 31:40 Share episode, review, and stay positive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why is having a will so indispensable? Ken Wise emphasizes the crucial need for organized estate planning to prevent complex legal disputes and ensure clear asset distribution. He discusses the pitfalls of informal wills and the benefits of consulting an attorney for comprehensive guidance. Ken also sheds light on the importance of probate records in genealogy and the preservation of historical records. Key Takeaways Having a legally binding will is crucial to ensure clear asset distribution after death, avoid complex and costly legal disputes, and simplify the probate process for surviving family members. Estate planning and understanding probate laws, especially in community property states like Texas, can prevent familial conflicts and ensure smoother asset transfer post-death. Consulting a lawyer is essential for navigating these complexities. Preserving historical records, including court and probate records, is vital for genealogical research. These records provide valuable information for descendants tracing their ancestry and contribute to communal historical preservation. Integrating technological solutions in legal contexts, such as digitizing court records or funeral home data, presents challenges but is necessary for improving accessibility and preserving historical documents. Ensuring reliable internet and power infrastructure is critical in these endeavors. Both legal professionals and funeral directors frequently encounter emotionally distressing situations. Professional resilience and emotional management are essential for individuals in these fields to perform their duties effectively and with empathy. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Texas court system: trial, appellate, Supreme courts.04:33 Judges balance attention, evidence, and case control.08:15 Judges handle many challenging, impactful cases continuously.12:18 Embezzlement complicated grief and legal challenges significantly.15:40 Understand end-of-life preparations and their importance.18:49 An estate handles deceased's assets, it's complex.21:47 SCI's global funeral home project faced challenges.25:23 Preserved Harris county's historic court records digitally.26:29 Started Texas history podcast without prior experience.30:43 Old case files require physical courthouse visits.33:52 Historical files at risk due to poor storage.37:26 Remembering existence through Facebook and paper records.39:07 Thanks for joining, please share and review! Learn more about Ken Wise's podcast Wise About Texas HERE. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why do near-death experiences seem to offer transformative impacts on individuals' lives? Genevieve hosts a discussion with Kathi Beasley from The Institute for Spirituality and Health, who recounts her own near-death experiences. Beasley speaks about the feeling of meeting loved ones in a special place and encountering a being of light. Her experience involves a powerful energy of love piercing her, altering her life's trajectory. Genevieve interprets these phenomena as an energy that exists beyond religious boundaries. They explore how these encounters provide new perspectives on life, death, and purpose. They discuss the psychological and spiritual transformations following such experiences. Supportive groups and resources for near-death experiencers are highlighted. Challenges in medical diagnosis and recognition of mystical experiences by healthcare professionals are examined. The episode underscores the value of understanding and supporting those who have undergone these life-changing events. Key Takeaways 1. Near-death experiences often involve encounters with a profound and unconditional love, a sense of peace, and transformative impacts on individuals' perspectives on life and death. These experiences can bring a deep understanding and appreciation for life, leading to significant personal changes toward empathy and compassion. 2. Those who undergo NDEs frequently shift from a more materialistic or ego-driven lifestyle to one centered on love, empathy, and service. The experiences are often seen as a second chance, prompting individuals to lead more meaningful and purpose-driven lives. 3. Providing validation and support for individuals who have experienced NDEs is crucial. This includes recognizing and accepting these experiences within the healthcare system and broader society to offer comfort and understanding to those affected. 4. There is a notable need for healthcare providers to recognize and address the spiritual or mystical aspects of patients' experiences, particularly those related to NDEs. This understanding can improve patient care and advocacy, leading to more holistic treatment approaches. 5. Patients with rare or difficult-to-diagnose medical conditions often face significant challenges in getting proper care. Kathi's story emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and persistence in seeking medical help. It also highlights the need for raising awareness among healthcare providers about the potential for paranormal or mystical experiences related to serious health issues. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Survived meningioma, found transformation, seeks grounding help.06:05 Progressive decline in functioning, separation sensation unexplained.07:53 Warnings dreams prompted her to seek medical attention.13:13 Doctors engage with center, promote learning.13:44 Sharing personal experience and fostering awareness.19:53 Institute helps doctors understand mystical experiences.21:22 Encouraging people to share their NDE stories.26:01 Accountability for past actions leads to shame.27:27 Extreme workaholic, little time at home, brutal work.32:07 Understanding vulnerability leads to self-protection awareness.35:15 Transformative experience from fear to love.38:27 Moved from painful experience to bright light.43:12 Man survives against odds, woman grieve's loss.46:30 Overwhelming experience of love and energy.47:15 Seeking love, peace and purpose despite hardship. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about The Institute for Spirituality and Health HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does one woman's unique approach to art and nature inspire her work? Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez hosts Ashley Worhol on "The Final Curtain Never Closes." Ashley's art features preserved butterflies and taxidermy, driven by her spiritual connection to nature. She raises butterflies like monarchs and swallowtails, observing their lifecycles and behaviors. Freezing preserves the colors, while a rehydration process keeps their muscles relaxed. Ashley’s art, including imperfections, appears in shadow boxes. Discussing taxidermy methods, she conveys her journey in the field over five years, showcased in various events. Butterflies hold symbolic value for her, seen as messages from angels or loved ones. Key Takeaways 1. The careful and ethical practices involved in preserving butterflies and other insects highlight the artistry and respect for nature that goes into taxidermy. Techniques like freezing, rehydrating muscles, and using shadow boxes are essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of preserved specimens. 2. The deep emotional bond between Ashley Worhol and the butterflies she raises and preserves demonstrates how animals, even insects, can have distinct personalities and become meaningful companions. This connection enriches her art and gives profound personal satisfaction. 3. Butterflies hold significant symbolic meaning, often representing spiritual messages or signs from loved ones who have passed away. This theme underscores the comforting and guiding role that nature can play in human lives, providing both emotional and spiritual support. 4. Ashley offers practical guidance for nurturing butterflies, such as the importance of milkweed for monarchs and rue for swallowtails. This advice encourages more people to engage with and contribute to butterfly conservation efforts in their own backyards. 5. The integration of preserved butterflies into art allows for a unique form of creative expression. Ashley's participation in markets and exhibitions, such as the witch's brew and Dio de los Muertos, showcases the intersection of art, nature, and commerce, making her work accessible and inspiring to a broader audience. Each theme reflects a layer of both practical knowledge and profound personal and emotional connection, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of Ashley Worhol's work with butterflies and art. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Longing for nature, found solace in butterflies.04:25 Breeding butterflies, releasing them, and differentiating species.09:31 Emotional connection to nurturing life and love.11:52 Kids scared of bugs, then fascinated by exhibit.16:03 Cautiously maintain and observe butterfly species.18:43 Artist creates massive butterfly art pieces. No humidity.23:27 Multi-talented artist finds calling after injury.25:23 Butterflies symbolize hope and comfort for families.27:49 Prayed for specific house, saw orange butterfly.30:46 Finding solace in a butterfly's presence.36:34 Preserve symbolic butterflies in long-lasting art.37:21 Build collection; market dates, contact for art. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about Ashley's work HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does one navigate the intricate world of death and its rituals? Welcome to "The Final Curtain Never Closes," the podcast from The National Museum of Funeral History. Join us as we explore the history and significance of humanity’s final rites through conversations with cremation experts, funeral school instructors, and researchers involved in our Shroud of Turin exhibit. Discover how these elements shape our understanding of death and the cultural heritage surrounding it. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What can a man born without arms teach us about life and death? Genevieve welcomes Gabriel Najera to the show. Gabriel overcame physical challenges to become an entrepreneur and international motivational speaker. He discusses learning to drive, starting a business, and achieving success. From life, death, energy, and the afterlife, Genevieve and Gabriel delve into the importance of visualization and decision-making as tools for progress. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about Gabrial Najera HERE. Key Takeaways 1.) Gabriel and Genevieve delve into various cultural and personal beliefs surrounding life, death, and what lies beyond, emphasizing the importance of personal experience and belief systems in shaping one's understanding of these profound topics. 2.) Gabriel's story is an inspiring testament to the human spirit's resilience. He transformed his physical limitations into a "different lifestyle" and found success and mobility through creativity and determination, particularly through the use of custom-made sandals. 3.) Despite facing discrimination in the job market, Gabriel's strong educational background in computer science and engineering led him to establish multiple successful businesses. 4.) Gabriel emphasizes the power of positive mindset and visualization in overcoming obstacles. Chapters 00:00 National Museum of Funeral History interview with Gabriel.04:23 Shriners hospitals provide prosthetics for kids.06:52 Doctors considered cutting legs, but were refused.09:43 Trust in God, no need for prosthetics.13:57 Childhood spent in boarding school, academic achievement16:02 Internet boom propelled Gabriel into new ventures.20:45 Invited to share testimony, motivate, speak internationally.23:01 Doctor orders nurse to inject brain-dead patient.27:29 Align vibrations to attract desired relationships, energies.30:29 Two cans spilled, one mysteriously opened, peaches lost.33:45 Unexpected death leads to shattered mirror discovery.39:09 Expresses deep emotions, thoughts about life's mysteries.39:55 Mother died, not sad, father gone on.43:00 Feed your mind, seek knowledge, not ignorance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ancient Egyptian funeral practices revolved around the belief in preparing the body for burial to ensure a smooth journey in the afterlife. Preserving the physical body through embalming was crucial, as it allowed the soul to return and reunite with the spirit. The embalming techniques employed by the Egyptians involved the use of resins, oils, and natron to preserve the body. The evolution of these techniques aimed at disinfection, preservation, and restoration, influenced by religious beliefs and the need to prevent the spread of diseases. The cult of Osiris, Isis, and Horus played a significant role in Egyptian mythology and burial practices. Family members held important roles in the embalming process. The relationship between Osiris, Isis, and Horus was deeply intertwined with the embalming process, and the canopic jars used to hold specific organs were of great significance. The Egyptians believed in the ba's 3000-year journey, and preserving the body was essential for its reunion with the ka, ensuring immortality. Embalming completed the circle of necessity, allowing the soul's return to the body. Embalming practices varied based on social status. Basic wrapping and burial were reserved for the common people, while royalty underwent elaborate embalming procedures. The classification of embalming practices by grades emphasized the level of status based on the embalming process. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez, the president and CEO of the National Museum of Funeral History, interviews Bridget Caletka, a grief counselor with Mosaics of Mercy. During this conversation, they talk about the importance of face-to-face communication in a technology-driven society. From the stages of grief to the various forms of grief, Genevieve and Bridget explore the topic of grief and societal attitudes from it. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Mosaics of Mercy on Facebook and Instagram. Takeaways 1.) There are different types of counselors, such as psychologists and licensed professional counselors, who provide talk therapy and address mental health struggles. 2.) In a technology-driven society, face-to-face communication is becoming less common, leading to a loss of interpersonal connection and empathy. 3.) Grief is a natural response to loss and can take many forms, including the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, or the end of a relationship. 4.) The stages of grief, as described by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, although they may not occur in a linear fashion. 5.) Grief is a universal experience, and it is important to recognize and support individuals who are grieving. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Different Types of Counselors06:14 Exploring the Stages and Forms of Grief32:12 Favorite Exhibits at the National Museum of Funeral History42:08 The Importance of Supporting Those Who Are GrievingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Angela Kaatz is the owner and producer of Ghost Hunting Beauties. During this conversation, Genevieve and Angela dive into the role of women in the paranormal field and the unique sensitivity and connection women share with the spirit world. They explore the evolving perceptions of death and the afterlife throughout history, offering personal experiences and encounters with spirits and ghosts. And they touch upon the validation of paranormal experiences and the importance of setting boundaries when communicating with the dead. The transfer of energy and the concept of reincarnation take center stage, highlighting the diversity of beliefs and perspectives surrounding the afterlife. Kaatz shares personal experiences and beliefs about signs and messages from the spirit world, including encounters with birds as messengers. Learn more about Ghost Hunting Beauties HERE. Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Key Takeaways 1.) Women play a significant role in the paranormal field, with many all-women teams exploring the spirit world. 2.) Women's sensitivity and nurturing nature may contribute to their ability to connect with spirits. 3.) Validating paranormal experiences involves trusting instincts, looking for specific messages, and debunking ordinary explanations. 4.) Perceptions of death and the afterlife have changed over time, with a shift from acceptance and celebration to fear and avoidance. 5.) Communication with the dead requires tuning in to specific energies and setting boundaries to protect one's own energy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Avoidance of the Subject00:59 Ghost Hunting Beauties: Women in the Paranormal04:18 Validating Paranormal Experiences06:12 Changing Perceptions of Death and the Afterlife08:16 Personal Experiences with Spirits and Ghosts10:08 Historical Shift in Attitudes Towards the Paranormal13:48 Communicating with the Dead14:45 Validation through Specific Messages20:20 The Transfer of Energy and Reincarnation22:38 Different Beliefs and Perspectives on the Afterlife26:07 Validation through Signs and Messages27:35 Signs and Messages from the Spirit World28:32 Birds as Messengers29:26 Visions and Dreams30:25 Death and Grief at a Young Age31:25 Fear of Death and Validation of Afterlife32:22 Reincarnation and Past Lives34:24 Embracing Death as an Adventure35:21 The Circle of Life and Continuing Bonds36:21 Reincarnation and Continuing Life Through Others37:18 The Impact of Birth and Death38:11 The New Normal After Loss39:03 Knowing Things Instinctively and Past Life Connections39:31 The Purpose of Difficult Life Journeys40:29 The Importance of Living Life to the Fullest41:25 Understanding Death at Different Ages42:23 Exposure to Death and Grief in Society43:22 The Stages of Grief and the Lack of Timelines44:20 Living with Loss and the New Normal45:43 Living Life Without Fear of Judgment47:33 The Purpose of Funerals and Celebrations of Life49:45 Unresolved Issues and Reasons for Spirits Sticking AroundSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Delve into the rich history and symbolism of coins beyond funerary practices in this intriguing discussion. Numismatist Larry Hoefer, a seasoned coin collector, sheds light on the traditions of burying coins with the deceased and the profound symbolism embedded in this practice. Explore a captivating exhibit at the National Museum of Funeral History showcasing a casket adorned with real money. Discover the significance of evaluating coin collections, planning their distribution, and ponder the future of coins in our digital era. Adding a personal touch, Larry, who happens to be Genevieve's father, shares insights into their shared past and his influence on her passion for coins. Uncover the educational and emotional significance of coins as historical artifacts in this engaging conversation. Please consider sharing this episode with family and friends. And schedule your tour of The National Museum of Funeral History at nmfh.org. Takeaways 1.) Coins have a rich history and symbolism in funerary practices, dating back to ancient times. 2.) Coins were often buried with the deceased to pay for passage into the afterlife. 3.) Coins on soldiers' headstones have specific meanings, representing visits, service, or witnessing their death. 4.) Assessing the value of coin collections and planning for their distribution is important for estate planning.Coins hold educational and emotional value as historical artifacts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Numismatics02:00 The History and Symbolism of Coins04:23 Coins in Funerary Practices05:22 The Money Casket07:42 Coins in Victorian Funeral Practices08:41 Coins on the Eyes of the Deceased09:50 Coins in Ancient Burials12:35 Coins on Soldiers' Headstones16:11 Coins as Messages from Loved Ones20:34 Collection vs Accumulation of Coins23:20 Planning for the Distribution of Coins27:45 The Future of Coins30:01 The Significance of Coins in a Digital Age35:23 The History of Coins39:41 Coins as Historical Artifacts42:51 Conclusion Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this conversation, Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez interviews Bob Boetticher Sr., a funeral director with 59 years of experience, about his career and the creation of the Presidential Exhibit at the National Museum of Funeral History. They discuss the significance of presidential memorabilia and artifacts, the role of the Military District of Washington in state funerals, and the planning and execution of state funerals. They also explore the traditions and rituals involved in state funerals, including lying in state, the caisson, and the riderless horse. Takeaways 1.) Bob Boetticher Sr. has had a long and distinguished career as a funeral director, including serving as the funeral director for some of the nation's presidents. 2.)The National Museum of Funeral History has a Presidential Exhibit that showcases the rituals and traditions involved in burying a U.S. president. 3.) State funerals involve various components, including lying in state, the caisson, the riderless horse, and military honors such as the 21-gun cannon salute and the missing man formation. 4.) Presidential libraries often serve as the final resting place for former presidents, providing an educational opportunity for visitors. Please consider sharing this episode with family and friends. And schedule your tour of The National Museum of Funeral History at nmfh.org. Chapters 00:00 Introduction00:45 Bob Bederker Sr.'s Career as a Funeral Director03:09 Creation of the Presidential Exhibit04:56 Presidential Memorabilia and Artifacts08:00 Significant Artifacts in the Presidential Exhibit09:27 Military District of Washington's Role in State Funerals10:22 Planning and Execution of State Funerals13:12 State Funerals and Presidential Libraries14:14 Lying in State and Lying in Repose17:07 Caisson and Riderless Horse in State Funerals18:37 Presidential Funeral Trains21:31 Lying in State in the US Capitol22:55 21 Gun Cannon Salute and Missing Man Formation25:17 Taps and Its Significance26:41 Family's Role in Planning a State Funeral27:37 Favorite Exhibit in the Presidential Section28:06 History of Presidential Funeral Trains30:31 George Bush's Funeral Train31:47 Significance of 41-41 and the Engineer June Noble35:04 Invitation to Visit the National Museum of Funeral History36:18 Conclusion Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this conversation, Frank Vazquez shares his journey of grief and loss after the death of his close friend, Tim. The conversation highlights the importance of safe friends and the impact they can have on our lives. Frank reflects on his friendship with Tim and the deep connection they shared. The conversation also explores the responsibilities of being a safe friend and the profound effect of Tim's passing on Frank's life. The episode concludes with a call to action to be a safe friend and cherish the moments we have with our loved ones. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Frank Vazquez04:36 The Importance of Safe Friends09:48 The Friendship Between Frank and Tim11:55 Discovering Tim's Terminal Illness14:16 The Impact of Tim's Illness on Frank18:01 Responsibilities of a Safe Friend21:21 The Profound Effect of Tim's Passing23:11 The Importance of Being a Safe Friend25:05 The Honor of Holding a Loved One's Hand in Their Last Moments25:55 Conclusion and Call to Action Plan your visit to the museum today at nmfh.org and take a journey through over 30,000 square feet of fascinating history. Subscribe to The Final Curtain Never Closes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez hosts Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America (WAA). They delve into honoring fallen veterans, exploring WAA's inception, and its diverse initiatives, including educational programs. The conversation emphasizes the significance of commemorating our heroes and the profound impact of WAA's efforts. For more on this cause, visit Wreaths Across America's website, engaging in honoring and learning about our nation's heroes. Please consider sharing this episode with family and friends. And schedule your tour of The National Museum of Funeral History at nmfh.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
November is an action packed month here at the museum. While the world payed homage to our dearly departed during the first two days of the month, we at the National Museum of Funeral History celebrate Dia de los Muertos all across the year. In this episode you'll learn why relatives use donuts and sugar skulls in their celebrations. And you'll learn the meaning of flowers and toys. We also commemorate Veterans Day this week that includes free admission for veterans. In this episode Genevieve dives into the story behind Veterans Day and how it's different from Memorial Day. And if you're a veteran, you get free admission to the museum through Veterans Day (11/11/23) when you show your ID. Plan your tour today at nmfh.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if some of your hometown's oldest, most haunted spaces were hidden in plain sight? What if they were so hidden, you quite literally walk and/or drive by them every day? The hometown in question is the museum's hometown of Houston, Texas. And today's guest, Texana Tours founder Richard Cook, joins the podcast to talk about places where you'd no doubt experience things from another dimension. Genevieve and Richard discuss the Jeff Davis Hotel (now an apartment complex) and the Donnellan Family Crypt, just two of many examples of paranormal places around the Greater Houston area. They tie it back to the museum's larger mission to educate and inform the public about the final rite of passage that we will all experience. Death. To learn more about Texana Tours, contact Richard HERE. To plan your visit to The National Museum of Funeral History, go HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Host and President/CEO of the National Museum of Funeral History Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez sits down with producer Freddy Cruz to discuss the twenty-second anniversary of the September 11th attacks. They delve into the stories and artifacts showcased in the museum's 9/11 exhibit, which serves as a poignant tribute to the lives lost on that fateful day. Don't miss out on this moving conversation. Plan your visit now at NMFH.org to witness this extraordinary display firsthand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
During this episode of The Final Curtain Never Closes, NMFH President and CEO Genevieve Keeney-Vazquez and her husband Frank have a candid conversation about the recent loss of a personal friend. The loss brought back painful memories from Genevieve's past, in which relatives refused to tell her about certain relatives' final days. During this episode, you'll hear about Genevieve's and Frank's experience, why it's important to come clean about end of life struggles, and how it's just as important for your family and friends as it is for you. While this episode is a personal glimpse inside the life of our President and CEO, it drives home the point of the museum's mission. To educate and enlighten society about the importance of the rite of passage we will all experience. Death. Please consider visiting the museum or making a donation at nmfh.org. Thank you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ask anyone who works in the death care industry and they'll tell you some version of the same thing. "I was called to do this work." That's how Cody Lopasky ended up in the business. Today, he serves as the President and School Director of The Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Services. During this conversation, we talk about: 1.) His journey to becoming a funeral director 2.) Why working in the funeral business is a calling 3.) How the death care industry has changed in recent years Learn more about The Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Services by visiting their website. About Cody Lepasky: Cody Lopasky has an M.A. in Psychology and History from the University of Houston-Victoria, a B.A. in Psychology from Texas State University-San Marcos, and he is an A.A.S. graduate with honors and distinction from Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service. As a student at Commonwealth, Lopasky was a member of the National Funeral Service Honor Society. He is a Texas-licensed funeral director and embalmer, a certified crematory operator, and chairs the Curriculum Study Committee and the College and University Council for the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.